At present, there is only one behavioral disorder included in the DSM’s classification of Substance-related and Addictive Disorders, gambling disorder, so the chapter’s focus is 12-step approaches relative to substance use disorders. Additionally, there is a dearth of scientific literature pertaining to 12-step approaches and behavioral addictions. Because AA and NA are the largest and most studied 12-step programs, most of this discussion is drawn from literature specific to these two programs. The chapter begins with an introduction presenting demographic data, history of 12-step programs, and the fundamental philosophy of the 12-steps. Thus, this chapter focuses primarily on 12 step-approaches. While alternatives to 12-step approaches are increasing, scientific information is limited. Although valid criticisms exist regarding 12-step approaches, for those whom 12-step approaches work, they appear to work quite well. Outcomes gleaned from these publications suggests substantial benefit to members of AA and NA both as an adjunct to professional treatment and as a stand-alone intervention for substance use disorder (SUD). Soon after, a sweeping review of scientific studies relative to Narcotics Anonymous (NA) was released.
In 2020, the most rigorous scientific study to date regarding the efficacy of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12 step approaches were published.
